Newcastle Law School

At Newcastle Law School, we take pride in our strength in experiential legal education, honed over two decades, and the direct translation of that education into successful careers enjoyed by our graduates. A recent focus on research and scholarship has built upon traditional strengths and generated
new opportunities, the Juris Doctor and Master of Laws (LLM) degrees, and customised clinics for the community,
to name a few.

Our cohorts are made up from students from all over the world, including from many regional and remote areas of Australia. Our educational philosophy is built upon a deep
commitment to teaching that is research-driven and aimed at developing fundamental disciplinary knowledge, analytical capabilities, legal reasoning and research skills.

Mission Statement

As Australia's leading clinical
law school, Newcastle Law School offers an innovative legal education
incorporating experiential learning that is interdisciplinary and
internationally focussed. Through first class, research-led legal education, we
integrate the study and practice of law. Our staff and graduates are
world-class professionals, who develop legal and regulatory solutions to some
of the most pressing social, commercial and environmental challenges facing our
community, region and world. Our graduates are ethically responsible global citizens,
who have a strong sense of social justice, uphold the rule of law and are
committed to the highest professional standards.

Our integrated Practice Program was the first in Australia to combine theoretical learning, skills training and experiential learning. Over 95 per cent of our Practice Program graduates gained employment within four months of completing their degree.

The University of Newcastle Legal Centre is the centrepiece of our clinical program. Functioning as both a legal practice and a teaching facility, the Legal Centre provides an intensive clinical placement site for students, offering a multitude of learning opportunities
from first year onwards. By working with the Legal Centre's solicitors and dealing with real cases and clients, our students gain the practical skills and experience necessary for a successful legal career.

The Newcastle Law School's Juris Doctor and Master of Laws programs are cutting edge law degrees featuring high quality teaching, flexible study options and a thriving student community. The Master of Laws (LLM) is designed for law graduates and legal practitioners who seek to advance their legal knowledge
and professional skills. The Juris Doctor (JD) is an internationally recognised graduate law qualification for students looking for legal careers or admission to legal practice in Australia.

Since 1994, the University of Newcastle Law Students' Association (UNLSA) has
promoted the interests of Newcastle law students within the University, the legal profession and the wider community. The UNLSA is an active student group participating in many legal competitions, including mooting, witness examination and negotiation, and professional and social events.